Gold to Michael Phelps and his LZR in 49.82; Silver to Milorad Cavic and his X-Glide in 49.95; bronze to Rafa Munoz (ESP) and his Jaked01 in 50.41.

It is 33 years and 7 days since Jim Montgomery (USA) cracked the 50sec mark over 100m freestyle at the Montreal Olympic Games. He wore nylon briefs at the first Games that saw its way through water in goggles. The record of world records was set that year and has stayed in place at 29 until Rome 2009. So far, with one day to go, 39 new global standards. Ho hum.